Brandy Old Fashioned
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Brandy Old Fashioned
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.8 / 5
The Brandy Old Fashioned is a beloved variation of the classic Old Fashioned, particularly popular in Wisconsin. It features brandy as the base spirit, offering a smooth, sweet, and flavorful twist on the original whiskey version.
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Invented
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circa 1850s
Base ingredient
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Brandy
Calories
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280 calories
Garnish
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Orange slice, Maraschino cherry
Alcohol content
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25% | 1.5 units *

Tags

Brandy ingredient icon
Brandy cocktails

Lowball glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

The Brandy Old Fashioned gives the classic cocktail a smooth, Midwestern twist, offering a rich sweetness and depth that's a signature delight for brandy lovers. The Angostura bitters cut through the sugar and brandy's inherent warmth, creating a perfectly balanced sip with a gentle hint of citrus and cherry that elevates the entire experience.

Method
How to make a Brandy Old Fashioned

Serves 4 · Takes 5 minutes
In a mixing glass, muddle a sugar cube with a few dashes of bitters and a splash of water
Add brandy and ice, then stir until chilled
Strain into a lowball glass over ice
Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry

Power tips
Elevate the Brandy Old Fashioned with these master mixologist tips

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Use a Demerara sugar cube instead of regular sugar for a richer, more nuanced sweetness. The unrefined nature of Demerara complements the smoothness of brandy perfectly.
Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink to enhance the citrus notes, then drop the peel into the drink for an added aromatic layer.
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Classic Old Fashioned Cocktail Drink Recipe

The Old Fashioned cocktail is a timeless classic that has become synonymous with sophistication and...

Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Muddle  ·  Bitters  ·  Stir  ·  Strain  ·  Garnish  · 

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

What is the history of the Brandy Old Fashioned?

The Brandy Old Fashioned has a rich history that is especially tied to the state of Wisconsin in the United States. It is said to have become popular in the early to mid-20th century when brandy was more accessible than bourbon or rye whiskey, the traditional choices for an Old Fashioned. This cocktail variation came about as immigrants from Germany and other European countries brought their preference for brandy to the United States. Wisconsin, with its robust drinking culture and love for unique spins on classic recipes, soon adopted the Brandy Old Fashioned as a state staple. Particularly in supper clubs across the state, this version of the Old Fashioned became renowned for its smooth, sweet, and somewhat fruit-forward taste compared to its whiskey counterpart.

Ingredient substitutions icon

Can I substitute brandy with another spirit in a Brandy Old Fashioned?

While the Brandy Old Fashioned traditionally uses brandy for its smooth and sweet profile, you can substitute it with other spirits if desired. One common substitution is to revert to the original spirit used in the classic Old Fashioned: bourbon or rye whiskey. This will recreate a more traditional taste associated with the drink's origins. For a different twist, you might experiment with cognac for a sophisticated flavor or even spiced rum for a wintery variation. Just keep in mind that each substitution will alter the cocktail's flavor profile significantly, so adjust the other ingredients, like the amount of sugar or bitters, accordingly to maintain balance.

Garnishing tips icon

What are some tips for garnishing a Brandy Old Fashioned?

Garnishing a Brandy Old Fashioned can enhance both its appearance and flavor. A classic garnish includes an orange slice and a maraschino cherry, which complement the sweetness of the brandy. Consider expressing an orange peel over the glass; the oils add a refreshing burst of citrus aroma. Some enthusiasts prefer a more vibrant approach with muddled fruit in the glass to infuse more flavor. If you're serving the drink for a special occasion and wish to leave a lasting impression, you might add a twist of lemon peel, mint sprigs, or even serve it with a sugared rim. Experiment to find what suits your taste and presentation style best.

Alcohol content comparison icon

How does the alcohol content of a Brandy Old Fashioned compare to other cocktails?

The Brandy Old Fashioned has an alcohol content of around 25%, which positions it moderately when compared to other cocktails. Classic cocktails like the Martini or the Manhattan tend to have higher alcohol percentages, often exceeding 30% due to their stirred nature and reduction of additional mixers. On the other hand, mixed drinks such as a Mojito or a Margarita typically have a lower alcohol content, around 15-20%, due to higher volumes of non-alcoholic mixers included in the recipe. Despite being relatively strong, the Brandy Old Fashioned’s smoothness often makes it easy to sip, which is why it's important to enjoy it responsibly.

Food pairings icon

What foods pair well with a Brandy Old Fashioned?

A Brandy Old Fashioned pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods, making it a versatile choice for meals. Its sweet and slightly spicy flavor profile complements rich and savory dishes, such as grilled meats and roasts, which are staples at Midwestern supper clubs. Cheese-based starters or platters also make excellent companions due to their ability to balance the drink’s sweetness with savory and tangy notes. If you’re looking for lighter options, consider pairing it with salads that feature nuts, dried fruits, or strong cheeses, adding a delightful contrast to the beverage’s complexity. For dessert, accompany your Brandy Old Fashioned with a fruit tart or caramel-flavored pastry to echo its fruity sweetness.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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